State Parks has opened a new Notice of Preparation (NOP) for two equestrian facilities in Cuyamaca Rancho State Park in San Diego County. The proposed Equestrian Facilities Project would create new equestrian facilities near the community of Descanso, including a campground, day-use staging area, and also a new equestrian staging area within the park.
The campground would be located in an agricultural field in the south end of the park adjacent to the current Merigan Staging Area. It would include up to 20 individual/family campsites with corrals. Its estimated completion date is 2010.
The new Paso Picacho East would provide a staging area similar to the Sweetwater Bridge Staging Area, though smaller and would access trails in the central and north end of the park.
On June 12 equestrians and other community members were shown concept drawings of the campground and staging areas and asked for their input into the project. Comments will be taken until July 11. Send written comments to Suzy Lahitte, Project Manager, Southern Service Center, 8885 Rio San Diego, Suite 270, San Diego, CA 92108 or email slahitte@parks.ca.gov. You may read the NOP at: www.parks.ca.gob/pages/667/files/20070509-final%nopwmap.pdf.
The Cuyamaca Equestrian Association, representing over 5,000 equestrians who are members of over 35 equestrian clubs and groups, is working with State Parks to design equestrian facilities that are horse and rig friendly, and that provide a positive experience for campers. Please contact anyone on the Board through www.cuyamacaequestrian.org or Ernie Smith at 619-445-8313 for information.